Bader Shows Improved Stand-up Game in Taking TUF Crown

UFC light heavyweight Ryan Bader entered his fight against Vinny Magalhaes a 4-to-1 underdog, however managed to victoriously walk away with a brand new six-figure UFC contract. Bader dominated his previous “TUF” contestants by relying heavily on his wrestling skills, however at “The Ultimate Fighter 8 Finale,” he proved to all that he does have the stand-up game to compete at this level.

“I definitely thought I had the better stand-up,” Bader stated. “I haven’t showed my stand-up game at all in any of my fights. I came from wrestling. I was thrown in there pretty quickly and I relied heavily on my wrestling. It takes some time and some ring experience to get in there and feel comfortable while you’re throwing punches.”

Although he was the one that put in the endless hours of gym time, the newly crowned TUF champion was gracious and humble enough to give all of the credit for his improved MMA game to his Arizona training camp.

“We’ve been working at Arizona Combat Sports and the Lally brothers have helped me a lot and just really improved my game for the six months,” said Bader.With Saturday’s victory, Bader now brings his professional record to a perfect 8-0.